Q&A with Newport News native David Macklin

By Amber Kuehn

Newport News native David Macklin, who has played cornerback in the NFL for the past eight seasons, knows the qualities it takes for a person to achieve great things. Macklin began the 27 Reasons Foundation five years ago, with programs now operating in 15 U.S. cities. The charity aims to equip disadvantaged children with the tools they need to succeed. Macklin and other NFL athletes from the Washington Redskins and Chicago Bears will be on hand at the "Reason-4-Believing" event July 10-12 at Fort Eustis, which features a football camp and golf tournament.

Q: What inspired you to start your 27 Reasons charity?

A: I really wanted to do something with the area in Virginia. I wanted to do a foundation and do it the right way. It was my goal to reach out to kids. My favorite scripture has always been Psalm 27 and I was blessed to have that number in college and in my NFL career, with the Cardinals.

Q: What ways have you used it to give back to your hometown community in Newport News?

A: We've done a lot of different programs in the area. We've had health clinics, given out food at Thanksgiving. Christmas time we were in the D.C. area giving out toys here and there. It's really grown, but I've been aiming at getting more back into the area.

Q: What did it mean to you to be able to play for the team you grew up watching - the Redskins - last season?

A: It was a blessing I was able to play there and a dream come true. It was a season for me to remember. Each and every one of us had lots of trials on and off the field. Sean Taylor's passing reminded me that things are not always going to happen as you plan them to. Now I'm blessed to be going to St. Louis to play for the Rams.

Q: What plans do you have when your days in the NFL are over?

A: I love working with kids. That's my passion.... But I've been playing football most of my life. It's what I know, what I do, and we put our hearts on the line... literally blood, sweat and tears. It takes a physical and mental toll, but I feel like I have four or five more years left in me. I don't know if I'd ever coach kids or not, but people have already guaranteed me coaching jobs. The sky's the limit.

Q: Out of your 27 principles for success, which one do you view as most important?

A: Faith, because without it, vision is tough. The Bible says without it your people will perish. In order to see things accomplished, someone had to have a vision. You won't be denied success if you first have faith. Not just in yourself, but also in the people around you.

Q: How is the progress toward reaching your goal of getting programs operating in 27 cities?

A: We're still working on that. It's not an easy task, but that's where faith comes in. It's a marathon, not a sprint. It's going to take some time.

Q: How often do you make it back to this area?

A: I've been to various cities, but I can definitely see myself getting back there more. I love being around my family, and it's important to be able to go back to where I came from.

Q: What's been your most memorable moment so far?

A: Just my career. Football has given me the opportunity to network and build relationships. It's opened huge doors on and off the field.

Amber Kuehn, (406) 321-1210, amber.kuehn@pilotonline.com